In what order do I do things?
7
LadyMaryofDownton · 05/12/2014 16:01
So I've finally decided to start writing my stories. However; I am really confused as to what order to do things.
Do I; start writing then worry about pictures, then publishing etc
Or
Do I; find out about publishing then start writing & then pictures.
I really am going round in circles with this so any help would be much appreciated.
Beangarda · 06/12/2014 00:10
What kind of stories? Is this an illustrated children's book?
whatsagoodusername · 06/12/2014 00:28
Write/pictures before publishing if mass market. If specialist, then publishing first.
In terms of pictures or writing first, whichever works best for you.
Good luck!
whatsagoodusername · 06/12/2014 00:30
The Writer's and Artist's Yearbook id a good reference for finding out who publishes what and the process.
There is a specific children's version, if that's what you're interested in, iirc.
schmalex · 07/12/2014 06:32
Are you an author-illustrator or an author?
If you want to write picture books, you need to get the text right before approaching a publisher. They will sort out the illustrator. Unless you also illustrate, in which case the process is slightly different.
schmalex · 07/12/2014 06:33
I always say this, but it's worth joining the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) to learn about the industry and network.
LadyMaryofDownton · 07/12/2014 12:45
Thanks for all your replies, I'll look into all your suggestions. I plan on writing short children's stories which will need a lot of pictures I assume. I also hope to self publish (because I think this might be easier which is why I feel so confused about the whole thing.
schmalex · 08/12/2014 06:14
Why not write the stories first and then decide how to publish?
Self publishing isn't necessarily easier - there's less of a barrier to entry but you have to do everything (and pay for everything) yourself. I'd imagine marketing is also very hard work.
I got my book published by sending it in to publishers' slush piles. It does happen!
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